Meet the Makers: Tiffany Ruocco, Sorella Scents

Tiffany Ruocco is a Certified Aromatherapist who shares her knowledge through the creation of hand-crafted, vegan aromatherapy products for everyday use.

What is one thing you would like the public to know about your business?

I am a Certified Aromatherapist trained in blending and using essential oils for healing purposes. My business is vegan, cruelty-free, fair-trade and organic.

Where do you see yourself & your craft 5 years from now?

I am hoping to continue to expand upon the list of stockists that already carry our products.

Is your business a hobby, full-time work, or both?

Sort of both! I am a full-time Graphic Design Professor at a local college.

What would your advice be to others looking to start something similar?

Be passionate! Without passion, hard work becomes just that. I do not see what I do for a living (with my business and with my teaching) as work because I love what I do.

What is your favorite part about working in the creative field?

I have found the handmade market to be filled with wonderful, positive people. It has been a joy to meet these makers and my customers at markets.

What do you think the most common misconception is about your craft?

That it isn't made by my own hand. The most common question I get at markets is "you make all of this?" When I inform people that I even designed the entire identity system and packaging, they are shocked!

What inspires your work?

As an artist, I am naturally a creative person. More specifically with what I make, I have found so much success with healing with essential oils when modern medicine has failed me. I wanted to share that with others.

Why did you choose to participate in The Makers Festival?

I heard about the festival too late [in 2015] to apply. I was intrigued by the fact that it was a festival by all handmade products.

What motivates you in the face of adversity?

Being true to myself and what I believe and stand for. I take pride in the quality of my work and the creativity of my ideas so I trust that even naysayers will see the difference in the end.

If you could choose any superpower, what would it be and why?

As a thyroid cancer survivor, I would choose a power that eradicates cancer from our vocabulary.